The deadline for entering the Press & Journal Gold Awards has been extended until Friday – to give as many companies as possible the chance to enter the North Sea awards.
Leading lights of the oil and gas industry – from small to large firms – can now submit their entries to the inaugural Gold Awards until Friday, 15 May – with the cost of entry being completely free of charge. The deadline was extended after unprecedented interest from supply chain firms and their marketing arms, with significant interest from those exhibiting at OTC in Houston last week.
The Press & Journal, in association with sister website Energy Voice and title sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management, has launched the awards scheme to mark a major milestone for the oil and gas sector – the 50th year of the north-east’s involvement in the development of the North Sea.
The Press and Journal’s energy editor, Jeremy Cresswell, chairman of the Gold Awards judging panel, said: “Celebrating a relationship between a community and an industry is exceptionally rare. And the one between Aberdeen and the North Sea offshore industry has to rank among the most remarkable of all; certainly in Britain.
“That’s why we set up the Gold Awards and why we would like as many of you as possible to get involved. You can do that either by entering your company or even simply nominating a firm that you believe ranks among the very best, both in terms of its track record and prospects for the future.
“Yes these are tough times, but when wasn’t the North Sea harsh? When weren’t there massive challenges? But also, when weren’t there massive opportunities both in the North Sea and around the globe?
“I believe the story of Aberdeen and North Sea oil is a fabulous reason to celebrate. Do please join us in doing that.”
The event, to take place at a glittering ceremony at the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, will also reveal the first winner of the inaugural Hall of Fame accolade.
Andrew Bradshaw, head of energy insight at specialist marketing communications agency and category sponsor, Fifth Ring, said: “By entering this awards scheme, companies can take advantage of a beneficial exercise in itself.
“It is a process in which people can engage with thinking about the business, benchmarking with peers/competitors. And those who are shortlisted – or even winners on the night – receive a great boost for the company’s profile, both externally and internally. Not to mention the boost in morale that winning or being shortlisted can deliver.”
Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, said: “With only four days left to to enter the Gold Awards, we are keen to get as many entries as possible to take part in this celebration of 50 years of the North Sea oil and gas industry.
“The raised company profile from an award win helps to increase respect from existing clients and also to attract a new client base,” he added.
There are six categories companies and individuals can enter, including Most Influential Business of the Past 50 Years, Most Influential Business of the Next 50 Years, Emerging Leader, Global Impact, Innovation of the Past 50 Years, and Innovation for the Future.
Press and Journal editor-in-chief Damian Bates said: “In this, the industry’s 50th year in the North Sea, it’s important that the Press and Journal steps back and, for the first time, celebrates the amazing achievements the people involved in this dynamic industry have produced in our own backyard.
“We have launched the Gold Awards to celebrate all the hard work and the massive success people and enterprises have achieved. It’s fantastic to be recognised, so I encourage all to enter so that people know what your business has achieved.
“Not only this, the night will be fabulous and provide an excellent opportunity for networking, where we can all remember the good times of yesteryear, and, just as importantly, look forward to the coming decades.”
Entering is easy and free of charge. Category hopefuls can apply by visiting the dedicated awards website. The closing date for entries is now May 15.
The new awards ceremony will be held on Friday, June 5 at the Marcliffe Hotel in Aberdeen.
The night also aims to recognise the wider community, which has supported the sector through its ups and downs.
As such, husbands, wives, partners and children are encouraged be part of this celebration.
As the hopes of the industry’s longevity rest firmly on the next generation’s very capable shoulders, companies are also strongly encouraged to include at least two young members of the team who represent that future.
A table of 10 costs £1,500 + VAT. The website, www.pandjgoldawards.com, is live for bookings. Alternatively, Rachael Duff can arrange for tables to be ordered on 01382 575965, or e-mail rduff@ajl.co.uk.